THE  LIBRARY 

OF 

THE  UNIVERSITY 
OF  CALIFORNIA 

LOS  ANGELES 


HY    I 


PROCEEDINGS  ATTENDING  THE  PRESENTATION 


REGIMENTAL  COLORS 

TO    THE    LEGISLATURE, 
April  20,  1864. 


ALBANY: 

VAN  BENTHUYSEN'S  STEAM  PRINTING  HOUSE. 
1864. 


THIS    WORK    IS    DEDICATED 

TO    THE 

VOLUNTEER  TROOPS  FROM  THE  STATE  OF  NEW  YORK, 

IN 

TESTIMONY  OF  THEIR  DEVOTION 

TO    OUR 

COMMON    COUNTRY. 

JOHN  T.  SPRAGUE,  Adjutant  General. 

HEAR  QUARTERS  STATE  OF  NEW  YORK,  > 
Albany,  N.  Y.,  June  20,  1864.  $ 


HIS    KXCELLENCY 

HORATIO  SEYMOUR, 

GOVERNOR, 

COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF  OF  THE  STATE  OF  NEW  YORK. 


ADJUTANT  GENERAL, 

BRIG.  GEN.  JOHN  T.  SPRAGUE, 

(Lt.  Col.  llth  Infantry  U.  S.  Army.) 
INSPECTOR  GENERAL, 

BRIG.  GEN.  JOSIAH  T.  MILLER. 

ENGINEER-IN-CHIEF, 

BRIG.  GEN.  ISAAC  VANDERPOEL. 

JUDGE  ADVOCATE  GENERAL, 

BRIG.  GEN.  NELSON  T.  WATERBURY. 

SURGEON  GENERAL, 

BRIG.  GEN.  JOHN  V.  P.  QUACKENBUSH. 

QUARTERMASTER  GENERAL, 

BRIG.  GEN.  S.  VISSCHER  TALCOTT. 

PAYMASTER  GENERAL, 

COL.  JOHN  D.  VAN  BUREN. 

AID-DE-CAMP, 

COL.  B.  TIBBITS. 

MILITARY  SECRETARY, 

MAJ.  WILLIAM  KIDD. 


ALBANY,  June  I,  1864. 


PROCEEDINGS 


IN    REGARD    TO    THE 

PHESENTATtON  OF  HEGtMENTAl  FLAGS. 


IN  ASSEMBLY,  WEDNESDAY,  April  13,  186-1. 

By  unanimous  consent,  on  motion  of  MR. 
CROOKE, 

Resolved  (if  the  Senate  concur),  That  the  Senate  and  As- 
sembly will  meet  at  this  Chamber  on  Wednesday  evening, 
20th  inst.,  at  7  o'clock,  to  receive  the  flags  of  volunteer 
regiments  of  this  State. 

MR.  CROOKE  moved  that  a  session  of  the  House 
be  held  on  Wednesday  evening  for  that  purpose. 

MR.  SPEAKER  put  the  question,  whether  the 
House  would  agree  to  said  motion,  and  it  was 
determined  in  the  affirmative. 

Returned  from  Senate  April  15th,  with  notice 
of  concurrence. 


BUftEAU  OF  MILITARY  STATISTICS. 


The  Legislature  in  1863,  made  provision  for 
an  office,  whose  particular  business  it  should  be 
to  collect  for  preservation  and  future  historical 
use,  the  records  and  statistics  which  should  tend 
to  illustrate  the  action  of  the  people  of  the  State 
of  New  York  in  the  present  war.  These  inqui- 
ries embraced  biographies  of  officers  and  men, 
the  history  of  regiments,  and  the  action  of  towns, 
counties  and  cities,  having  reference  to  the  rais- 
ing of  men  or  means  for  the  war,  or  the  support 
of  families  of  volunteers. 

The  Laws  of  1864  (Chapter  51),  made  further 
provision  for  continuing  the  Bureau  of  Military 
Statistics,  and  for  greatly  extending  its  facilities. 

A  part  of  its  duties  related  to  the  custody  of 
the  flags  of  regiments  whose  term  of  service  had 
expired,  and  those  colors  which  from  wear  and 
injury  were  of  no  further  use  in  the  field.  Of 


PRESENTATION    OF 


these,  nearly  one  hundred  have  now  been  col- 
lected, and  it  is  believed  that  ultimately  the 
greater  part  of  these  honored  memorials  of  the 
valor  and  patriotism  of  New  York  troops,  will  be 
gathered  into  this  repository. 

On  the  23d  of  April,  1863,  seven  regimental 
flags,  which  had  been  returned  to  the  State,  were 
presented  to  the  Governor,  in  the  presence  of  the 
Legislature,  with  impressive  ceremonies. 

The  intention  of  the  State  Government  in 
adopting  these  measures,  was  mainly  to  express 
to  the  world,  and  to  place  upon  record  in  the 
most  solemn  and  eloquent  manner,  their  high 
appreciation  of  the  services  of  its  troops  in  the 
field,  and  to  convey  to  such  as  might  then  or 
thereafter  be  engaged  in  the  service,  an  assur- 
ance that  their  patriotism  and  valor  were  known 
and  approved.  While  resting  assured  that  these 
troops  would  do  or  omit  nothing  that  should  dis- 
honor themselves  or  the  State,  it  was  deemed 
proper  to  bring  prominently  before  their  minds 
the  important  truth,  that  their  conduct  was  under 
observation,  and  that  their  victories  were  a  sub- 
ject of  gratification  and  pride  to  the  State.  A 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


motive  was  thus  added  for  winning  new  laurels 
in  the  campaign,  and  of  adding  a  new  lustre  to 
their  fame.  Every  soldier  might  feel  that  upon 
himself  depended  in  some  degree  the  reputation 
and  honor  of  the  Empire  State,  and  that  his 
personal  character  was  pledged  in  their  main- 
tenance and  defence. 

During  the  year  1863,  and  early  months  of 
1864,  many  flags  were  added  to  the  collections 
of  the  Bureau  of  Military  Statistics,  and  of  these 
fifty  that  had  been  borne  by  regiments  and 
batteries  in  the  field,  were  presented  by  the 
Governor  to  the  Legislature,  convened  for  that 
occasion,  in  the  Assembly  Chamber,  on  the 
evening  of  April  20th,  1864.  To  the  proceed- 
ings upon  that  occasion,  and  to  the  history  of 
the  flags  then  presented,  the  present  work  is 
devoted. 

The  Bureau  of  Military  Statistics  is  now 
authorized  to  receive  worn  out  flags  from  organ- 
izations still  in  the  service,  in  exchange  for  new. 
The  law  provides  that  requisitions  for  new  flags 
claimed  under  this  act,  shall  be  made  by  the 
commanding  officers  of  regiments  upon  the  Quar- 


PRESENTATION    OF 


ter  Master  General,  and  that  they  shall  be 
accompanied  by  a  certificate  of  the  Chief  of  the 
Bureau  of  Military  Statistics,  that  the  old  flag 
with  its  accompanying  history  has  been  deposited 
in  his  office. 

The  Bureau  is  also  forming  a  museum  of  arti- 
cles of  military  interest  connected  with  the 
present  war,  and  arrangements  are  being  made 
for  the  preservation  of  its  collections  against 
chance  of  accident,  and  for  their  public  display. 

As  extensive  a  collection  as  possible  is  being 
made  of  biographical  notices,  journals  and  narra- 
tives, published  documents,  correspondence  and 
original  papers.  These  will  be  carefully  kept 
for  future  reference  and  use,  under  such  regula- 
tions as  may  be  deemed  necessary  for  their  safety. 
Such  photographic  or  other  portraits  of  officers 
or  privates,  as  may  be  contributed  to  the  collec- 
tion, will  be  indexed  and  bound,  or  otherwise 
preserved. 

The  active  co-operation  of  officers  and  soldiers 
now  or  formerly  in  the  public  service,  is  soli- 
cited in  increasing  the  collections  already  begun. 
The  united  efforts  of  our  citizens  may  it  is  hoped, 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


form  a  collection  that  will  acquire  interest  and 
value  commensurate  with  the  magnitude  and 
importance  of  the  subject,  and  present  a  lasting 
evidence  of  the  patriotic  efforts  of  the  people  of 
New  York  in  the  preservation  of  the  Union,  in 
the  present  great  national  crisis. 

All  communications  or  donations  intended  for 
this  purpose,  should  be  addressed  to 

COL.  LOCKWOOD  L.  DOTY, 
Chief  of  Bureau  of  Military  Statistics, 

Albany,  N.  Y. 


PRESENTATION    OF 


PHOCEEWNGS  ON  PHESENTATION  OF  FUGS. 


The  Assembly  met  at  the  appointed  hour,  and 
being  called  to  order,  committees  were  appointed 
to  wait  upon  the  Governor,  Lieutenant  Governor, 
Adjutant  General,  and  Senate,  to  notify  them 
that  they  were  in  readiness  to  receive  them. 

The  Senate  having  arrived,  were  seated  in 
front  of  the  Speaker's  desk.  The  flags  were 
then  brought  in,  each  one  being  borne  by  a 
young  gentleman  who  volunteered  for  the  occa- 
sion, and  arranged  in  a  double  line  along  the 
middle  aisle  of  the  Assembly  Chamber. 

The  Governor,  Adjutant  General  and  Military 
Staff,  accompanied  by  the  Assembly  Committees, 
consisting  of  GEN.  CROOKE,  COL.  BULLOCK,  CAPT. 
FILKINS,  CAPT.  OSWALD  and  CAPT.  PARKER,  then 
came  in  and  took  their  places,  the  Governor  in 
the  Chair  presiding,  with  the  Speaker  of  the 
Assembly  on  his  right. 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


A  large  number  of  citizens  and  ladies  were 
present,  and  a  band  of  music  was  in  attendance. 

After  the  convention  had  been  called  to  order, 
Adjutant  General  SPRAGTJE  arose  and  delivered 
the  following  address : 

"  '  In  Rama  there  was  a  voice  heard  ;  lament- 
ation, and  weeping,  and  great  moaning :  Rachel 
weeping  for  her  children,  and  would  not  be  com- 
forted because  they  are  not.' 

"  To-night  there  is  a  voice  coming  up  to  us 
throughout  this  land,  reverberating  within  these 
walls  with  fearful  emphasis  and  melancholy 
cadence,  breaking  upon  the  hearts  of  many  now 
within  the  sound  of  my  voice :  it  is  the  wail  of 
America  weeping  for  her  children. 

"  It  is  meet  for  us  to  be  here  to-night,  my 
countrymen,  and  may  we,  like  the  patriarch  of 
old,  come  up  high  upon  Mount  Horeb  to  worship. 
Here  let  us  burn  incense  upon  the  altar  of  our 
country,  and  may  the  smoke  of  the  sacrifice  rise 
above  these  venerated  walls,  surmounting  the 
hills  around  us,  and  settle  down  upon  every 
heart  in  our  distracted  land. 

"  Why  this  forest  of  banners  here  to-night  ? — 


PRESENTATION    OF 


spectres  of  bloody  battle-fields ;  cerements  of 
the  grave ;  fit  garments  for  brave  men.  It  is 
because  our  country  is  rent  by  a  civil  war.  Every 
one  of  these  have  a  tale  of  fearful  and  eventful 
interest,  of  joy  and  sorrow,  of  glory  and  renown. 
"  Those  stars,  now  dimmed  by  the  sulphurous 
smoke  of  the  battle-field,  once  glittered  and 
shone  forth  from  many  a  secluded  hamlet,  from 
true  and  patriotic  hearts  throughout  the  State. 
Those  stripes  once  shot  forth  like  the  radiance 
of  a  morning's  sun,  from  cities,  villages  and 
associations,  until  they  coruscated  into  the 
expressive  banner  of  our  country ;  while  the 
dark  eagle  —  emblematic  of  our  greatness  and 
power  —  soared  aloft  and  swept  its  way  to  the 
battle-field,  amid  the  universal  shouts  of  a  patri- 
otic and  indignant  people.  Many  a  father  gave 
a  hearty  farewell  to  his  only  son,  as  the  tears 
coursed  down  the  gorges  of  his  manly  cheek. 
Mothers  clasped  to  their  bosoms  the  support  of 
their  declining  years,  and  bade  God  speed  them 
to  the  battle-field.  Wives  clung  tenaciously  to 
the  companions  of  their  lives,  while  the  house- 
hold extended  their  tiny  hands  to  bid  a  last  fare- 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


well.  She  whose  heart  swelled  with  fervor  and 
affection  in  '  love's  young  dream,'  tore  asunder 
the  cords  that  bound  her,  and  with  pride  and 
enthusiasm  saw  in  him  the  brave  defender  of  her 
country's  honor. 

"  The  shifting  scenes  of  the  drama  have 
passed  before  us,  and  these  banners  have  re- 
turned to  narrate  with  graphic  power,  tales  of 
sorrow  and  trials,  as  well  as  of  fidelity,  patriot- 
ism and  renown.  The  eagle  spreads  his  dark 
plumage  o'ershadowing  us  with  sadness,  and 
perches  upon  many  a  solitary  threshold  within 
the  limits  of  this  State.  Such  a  representation 
as  we  have  here  to-night,  comes  home  to  us  with 
many  salutary  lessons  of  instruction. 

"  It  grapples  with  our  hearts,  arouses  our  sensi- 
bilities, awakens  within  us  sober  reflection,  and 
bewilders  the  mind,  when  we  attempt  to  with- 
draw the  veil  obscuring  the  future,  and  the  cry 
involuntary  comes  forth,  how  long !  Oh,  how 
long  shall  our  country  be  rent  by  a  civil  war ! 

"It  is  better  for  us  to-night  to  be  in  the  house 
of  mourning  than  in  the  house  of  feasting.  This 


is  a  time  for  serious  reflection,  when  we  should 


PRESENTATION    OF 


look  at  facts  and  events  without  disguise.  In 
this  terrible  conflict  now  raging  for  the  restora- 
tion of  our  country,  the  crisis  has  come.  We 
are  to  conquer  or  be  conquered.  Our  destiny  is 
to  restore  the  power  of  our  country,  the  suprem- 
acy of  our  rights  and  our  laws,  our  Constitution 
and  the  Union.  If  we  fail  in  this,  the  iron 
yoke  of  bondage  is  upon  us,  and  we  become  a 
by-word  and  a  reproach  to  the  civilized  world. 

"  The  fearful  passions  of  revenge  will  ravage 
our  land,  and  our  hearthstones  will  be  made  deso- 
late with  fire  and  with  blood.  Your  hoarded 
wealth  will  be  turned  to  cinders,  and  your  gold 
to  dross.  This  war  can  only  be  terminated  by 
the  power,  by  the  energy  and  fidelity  of  the  peo- 
ple. Blood  and  treasure  must  be  staked,  which, 
with  a  wise,  sagacious,  and  charitable  statesman- 
ship, our  country  will  be  restored.  Men  of  all 
classes  must  come  up  to  the  work  without  parti- 
san or  fanatical  zeal,  and  with  pure  and  patriotic 
sentiments.  Personal  and  political  feelings  must 
be  subdued ;  and  whatever  may  be  the  difference 
of  opinion,  accord  to  each,  in  charity,  integrity 
and  fidelity,  in  maintaining  the  power  and  supre- 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


macy  of  our  country.  Maintain  our  Govern- 
ment ;  give  to  its  measures  a  cordial  support ; 
and  if  successful,  it  will  meet  a  corresponding 
reward.  If  otherwise,  punishment  will  ensue 
from  the  condemnation  of  the  world.  It  is  the 
people  who  control ;  look  to  it  with  care,  wisdom 
and  caution.  In  my  opinion  this  war  has  but 
commenced ;  one  part  of  the  country  is  a  battle- 
field where  homes  are  desolated  and  wives  and 
children  are  seeking  shelter  and  food.  Here,  in 
our  midst,  extravagance,  plethoric  wealth,  joy 
and  carelessness  prevail,  and  thousands  are 
hoarding  treasure  gleaned  from  the  blood  of  our 
countrymen.  The  rich  man  plies  the  measure  of 
his  demands  as  embarrassments  increase,  wrung 
from  the  daily  toil  of  the  soldier,  the  citizen, 
and  the  poor  who  earn  their  daily  bread  by  the 
sweat  of  their  brow. 

"  Our  streets  are  thronged  by  young  and  hearty 
men,  as  money  keeps  them  from  the  conflict  of 
arms.  Money  —  gold  —  has  become  the  repre- 
sentative of  patriotism.  That  pure  and  genial 
flame  that  was  ignited  in  the  hearts  of  our  fore- 
fathers, securing  to  us  the  institutions  we  so  long 
3 


PRESENTATION    OF 


enjoyed,  has  become  dimmed ;  it  is  a  phosphoric 
light  that  glitters,  but  is  cold. 

"  Being  so  far  removed  from  the  conflicts 
which  we  have  observed  for  three  years  past,  we 
have  not  realized  the  revenge  and  vindictive- 
ness  of  the  enemy.  The  strife  is  now  in  the 
midst  of  us,  around  us,  and  before  us.  We  have 
been  made  the  instruments  in  the  hands  of  a 
wise  Providence,  for  the  accomplishment  of  some 
great  end,  or  for  our  punishment  as  a  nation. 
Our  course  has  been  one  of  vain  boasting,  and 
self-reliance,  not  with  penitential  reverence  for 
the  blessings  received.  Patriotism  is  a  reli- 
gion allied  to  our  God.  Without  it,  pure  and 
unaffected,  no  nation  can  be  saved.  This  pic- 
ture may  not  be  acceptable,  but  they  are  facts  — 
unmistakable  facts,  and  we  should  meet  them 
like  men.  Let  us  draw  lessons  of  instruction 
from  the  past,  and  look  with  courage  and  confi- 
dence to  the  future,  keeping  steadily  in  view  the 
motto  —  '  conquer  or  be  conquered.' 

"  With  all  this  we  have  much  to  be  proud  of  in 
the  events  which  have  transpired  during  the  past 
three  years.  The  soldier  is  well  cared  for.  The 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


United  States  Hospital  Department  is  perfect  in 
its  details,  and  administered  with  vigor  and 
liberality  by  its  efficient  officers.  Upwards  of  a 
million  and  a  half  of  dollars  have  been  raised  by 
Military  Fairs  in  this  State.  The  Sanitary  and 
Christian  Commission  have  been  untiring  in 
their  zeal  and  devotion.  The  State  has  a  depot 
for  the  soldier  in  the  city  of  New  York,  in  which 
twenty-seven  thousand  men  have  been  made 
comfortable  and  happy  during  the  past  year. 
Our  armies  -  have  been  victorious,  and  the  ranks 
are  being  filled  by  patriotic  and  devoted  men. 
Crushing  this  rebellion  and  restoring  our  coun- 
try, is  but  a  question  of  time. 

"  This  State  has  sent  to  the  field  293,000  men, 
and  it  would  be  strange,  indeed,  if  there  should 
not  be  mingled  in  their  experience,  much  that  is 
sorrowful,  as  well  as  the  pride  and  glory  sur- 
rounding achievements. 

"  These  banners  come  back  to  us  without 
reproach.  There  are  now  in  the  field  upwards 
of  one  hundred  and  thirty  thousand  men  from 
this  State.  Should  occasion  require,  more  are 
prepared  to  go. 


PRESENTATION    OF 


"  From  the  records  now  before  me,  which  I 
shall  read,  there  is  enough  to  cause  every  citizen 
to  be  proud  of  his  native  State,  and  to  cause  a 
feeling  of  gratitude  and  of  pride,  that  '  Excel- 
sior '  can  be  inscribed  upon  her  banners  without 

reproach. 

****** 

"  My  task  is  done.  As  your  representative, 
and  on  behalf  of  those  brave  men  now  in  the 
field,  and  in  the  presence  of  both  Houses  of  the 
Legislature,  I  deposit  these  colors  in  the  Statis- 
tical Bureau  of  this  State,  and  it  is  to  be  hoped 
that  not  a  long  time  may  elapse  before  an  appro- 
priate building  will  be  erected  where  they  can 
be  displayed  in  all  time  to  come.  There  let  the 
breezes  of  Heaven  blow  gently  on  their  gaping 
wounds,  amid  the  smiles  and  caresses  of  a  free, 
intelligent,  loyal  and  happy  people. 

"The  ivy  may  cling  its  tendrils  around  the 
sturdy  oak,  but  the  parent  trunk  must  die. 

"  The  moss  of  ages  may  gather  upon  moulder- 
ing stones,  broken  columns,  and  the  architecture 
of  the  age ;  but  the  memory  of  these  defenders 
of  our  country  will  live  in  a  perennial  green, 


KEGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


and  their  names  will  be  inscribed  in  letters  of 
eternal  and  living  light  upon  the  escutcheon  of 
their  country. 

"  Spirits  of  the  departed  brave,  if  you  are  per- 
mitted to  look  down  upon  our  devotions  here 
to-night,  assemble  around  the  immortal  Washing- 
ton, and  hear  the  accents  of  a  grateful  people. 
Peace !  Peace !  we  will  watch  with  pious  care 
the  laurels  that  shade  your  urns,  and  wear  your 
names  engraven  upon  our  hearts." 

The  flags  were  then  brought  forward  by  regi- 
ments in  their  numerical  order,  and  the  history 
of  each  was  read  by  the  Adjutant  General,  as 
hereinafter  given. 

MR.  ALVORD,  the  Speaker  of  the  Assembly, 
then  arose  and  made  the  following  remarks : 

"  Unprepared  on  this  occasion,  from  the  cir- 
cumstances which  surround  this  period  of  time, 
yet  at  the  request  of  those  gathered  together 
here,  I  shall  say  a  few  words  to  you.  It  is  with 
mingled  feelings  of  sad  solemnity  and  joyousness 
that  I  do  address  you  —  a  solemnity  which  has 
been  impressed  upon  me  by  the  words  of  the 
distinguished  gentleman  who  has  this  night,  in 


PRESENTATION    OF 


the  name  of  the  regiments,  presented  these  flags 
to  take  their  place  in  the  archives  of  the  State. 
For  he  has  spoken  of  troublous  times  which  tin-so 
flags  have  seen  —  of  the  blood,  the  slaughter, 
and  the  dead  which  have  marked  their  pathway 
in  the  battles  which  have  raged  around  them  as 
they  have  been  borne  forth  in  the  conflict;  but, 
at  the  same  time,  with  a  joyous  and  buoyant 
feeling,  I  welcome  these  flags  home  again  to 
their  native  soil  of  the  State  of  New  York,  for 
it  shows  that  her  sons  have  fought  nobly  and 
well  in  this  struggle  for  her  country's  good  and 
for  her  maintenance  and  her  perpetuity.  We 
are  fighting  a  battle  in  which  we  have  got  to 
conquer  or  die.  We  are  fighting  a  battle  in 
which  is  to  be  established  for  all  time  that  God 
has  written  in  the  decrees  of  Heaven  that  man 
is  to  work  it  out  upon  earth  that  he  is  capable  of 
self-government,  and  that  we  shall  in  the  end  be 
free.  Many  of  these  flags  have  been  borne  forth 
by  regiments  who,  to-day,  with  a  more  firm  step 
than  when  they  first  went  forth,  are  now  press- 
ing upon  the  last  recesses  of  the  enemies  of  our 
country. 


-s. 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


"Aye,  and  I  tell  you  that  out  of  the  remnants 
and  battles  which  are  here  shown  to  you,  there 
will  come  up  a  brighter  and  nobler  banner  in  the 
future  —  our  stars  will  be  increased  in  multi- 
tude —  our  stripes  will  float  over  a  free  and 
happy  people  from  one  end  of  the  country  to  the 
other.  And  welcome  are  these  flags  to  the 
archives  of  our  State,  for  each  and  every  one  of 
them  is  a  page  in  its  history.  And  I  welcome 
them  for  another  reason.  Partizan  feeling  and 
party  strifes  sink  into  insignificance  before  them, 
for  the  blood  of  all  of  us  has  mingled  in  this 
strife  —  there  has  been  no  distinction  —  brothers 
have  stood  shoulder  to  shoulder  with  brothers, 
and  exposed  their  lives  to  overcome  the  enemies 
of  their  country.  I  trust  that  these  banners  will 
bind  around  us  the  silken  chains  of  concord  and 
unity.  I  know  that  whatever  may  be  our  bick- 
erings here,  when  the  time  shall  come,  if  it  must 
needs  come,  it  will  be  the  one  universal  thought 
and  action  upon  the  part  of  the  people  of  the 
North  to  fight  on  and  fight  ever,  until  the  banner 
of  our  country,  undimmed  of  any  stars,  and  with 
no  stripes  removed  from  it,  shall  float  free  over 


PRESENTATION    OF 


the  land,  from  Maine  to  the  Gulf,  from  the 
Atlantic  to  the  Pacific.  I  thank  you  for  having 
thus  far  listened  to  me.  I  have  nothing  further 
to  say,  except  to  introduce  to  you  upon  this  occa- 
sion, as  the  presiding  officer  of  this  assemblage, 
one  whose  eloquence  needs  no  eulogium  from  my 
tongue,  and  whose  heart  beats  as  warmly  and  as 
honestly  for  the  Union  as  that  of  any  among  us." 

His  Excellency,  Governor  SEYMOUR,  arose  and 
addressed  the  assemblage  as  follows : 

"  With  a  wise  and  patriotic  liberality,  this  State 
has  provided  that  the  history  of  every  regiment 
it  has  sent  to  the  war  shall  be  preserved,  and 
that  there  shall  be  a  place  where  shall  be  depo- 
sited the  banners  which  they  have  borne  in  the 
contests  in  which  they  have  been  engaged.  I 
am  sure  that  the  heart  of  every  man  within  the 
sound  of  my  voice,  has  been  moved  this  night, 
when  he  has  seen  these  banners  brought  back 
again  into  our  State,  so  sad,  and  yet  so  glorious. 

"  Every  one  has  been  proud  of  our  State, 
when  we  heard  from  the  lips  of  General  Sprague, 
from  whence  these  banners  went.  That  some 
were  sent  from  the  Great  Metropolis,  some  from 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


the  shores  of  our  great  lakes,  others  from  the 
shores  of  Lake  Champlain,  and  others  again  from 
the  valleys  of  the  Mohawk,  the  Delaware,  the 
Susquehanna,  or  the  Allegany.  From  whatever 
part  of  our  State  they  have  gone,  they  went 
from  sections  that  had  already  a  glorious  history. 
The  whole  history  of  New  York,  from  its  begin- 
ning to  this  day,  has  been  an  honorable  one.  It 
has  required  no  stretch  of  imagination  to  pic- 
ture to  ourselves  the  scene  when  these  brave, 
bold  and  stalwart  men  went  forth  from  the  hills 
and  valleys  and  cities  of  our  land  to  battle  for 
our  flag.  You  have  seen  them  from  time  to  time, 
returning  here  shattered  and  broken,  the  mere 
remnants  of  those  glorious  bands,  which  excited 
our  admiration  and  our  enthusiasm  on  their 
departure.  And  in  their  history  you  have  an 
epitome  of  the  whole  war.  The  banners  that 
have  been  presented  to  you  this  night  have  been 
fanned  by  the  breezes  of  Carolina,  have  been 
dampened  with  the  dews  that  have  fallen  in  the 
swamps  of  Virginia,  have  drooped  under  the 
almost  tropical  sun  of  Louisiana,  have  floated 
high  in  the  heavens  'in  the  battle  above  the 


PRESENTATION    OF 


clouds,'  at  Lookout  Mountain,  where,  under  their 
folds,  we  won  an  honorable  victory.  It  is  well 
that  our  State  on  this  occasion  has  shown  its 
ancient  fidelity  to  the  flag  of  our  country,  to  the 
Union  of  these  States,  and  to  the  Constitution 
of  our  land.  It  is  fit  and  becoming  that  this 
great  State,  on  whose  soil  this  flag  of  ours  was 
first  given  to  the  breezes  of  Heaven,  and  which 
was  first  displayed  in  defence  of  the  very  spot 
on  which  we  now  stand,  shall  be  foremost  in  its 
defence.  The  State  of  New  York  has  nearly 
130,000  men  in  the  field.  During  the  whole  of 
this  contest,  it  has  furnished  one-fifth  of  our 
armies.  I  believe  I  may  say  that  her  sons  have 
been  inferior  to  none  in  their  bravery,  their 
devotion,  their  courage  or  their  patriotism. 

"  I  will  not  attempt  to  add  to  the  emotions 
you  have  felt  upon  the  display  of  these  flags.  I 
have  no  eloquence  which  shall  compare  with  that 
of  these  mute  emblems,  whose  very  rags  and 
tatters  are  made  glorious  with  the  memories  and 
histories  of  martial  achievements.  I  have  only 
to  add  a  fervent  prayer  that  all  the  sacrifices  that 
have  been  made,  that  the  blood  which  has  been 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


poured  forth,  may  not  have  been  made  and  shed 
in  vain.  May  Almighty  God,  in  his  providence, 
grant  that  all  these  things  may  tend  to  the  wel- 
fare, the  glory,  and  the  honor  of  this  land  of  ours. 
In  the  midst  of  the  darkness  which  now  over- 
hangs us,  in  view  of  the  uncertainties  of  the 
contest,  with  the  full  knowledge  that  still  further 
life  must  be  rendered  up,  and  still  more  blood  be 
shed  for  the  cause  in  which  we  are  engaged, 
placing  full  reliance  upon  a  wisdom  greater  than 
man's  wisdom,  and  trusting  in  a  goodness  and 
a  mercy  far  superior  to  that  which  can  actuate 
the  human  breast,  we  hope  that  these  sacrifices 
may  end  in  our  country's  glory  and  honor.  I 
receive,  on  behalf  of  the  great  State,  whose 
Chief  Magistrate  I  am,  these  emblems  of  the 
valor  and  the  patriotism  of  our  sons.  They  will 
be  set  aside  and  preserved,  monuments  of  the 
devotion  of  our  people  in  the  struggle  for  the 
success  and  glory  of  our  common  country.'* 

GEN.  CROOKE  responded : 

"  He  said  the  main  reason  for  his  consenting 
to  speak,  was  to  speak  with  reference  to  his  own 
locality.  The  reason  why  Long  Island  had  no 


PRESENTATION    OF 


representative  among  the  flags  was,  that  they 
felt  so  proud  of  their  trophies,  that  they  would 
not  let  them  be  taken  from  Brooklyn.  They 
preferred  to  keep  them  there.  He  was  glad  that 
mention  had  been  made  of  the  militia.  He  was 
proud  of  the  militia.  He  referred  to  the  14th 
Brooklyn  regiment,  which  rejoiced  in  being 
called  the  Militia  of  the  Army  of  the  Potomac. 
The  militia  did  amount  to  something,  and  it  had 
sometimes  been  said  that  he  had  *  militia  on  the 
brain.'  Let  it  be  so  understood.  He  was  ready 
to  make  sacrifices  for  that  branch  of  the  service. 
To  a  great  extent,  the  militia  of  the  State  owed 
its  efficiency  to  Governor  SEYMOUR. 

"  The  Governor  had  done  much  to  aid  in  the 
organization,  and  it  was  proper  that  he  should 
have  credit.  He  felt  more  sanguine  of  the  result 
of  the  contest  in  which  we  are  engaged  than 
GEN.  SPRAGUE  had  expressed.  He  did  not  feel 
despondent.  He  could  not  but  feel  that  the 
result  would  be  successful  and  glorious,  and  he 
presumed  he  should  think  so  if  the  war  was 
to  continue  for  ten  years  to  come.  He  be- 
lieved the  ladies  sympathized  with  him  in  this 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


opinion,  for  they  always  had  confidence  in  good 
results." 

The  following  lines,  written  by  ALFRED  B. 
STREET,  State  Librarian,  were  prepared  for  the 
occasion : 

Aye,  bring  back  the  banners  and  fold  them  in  rest  ! 
They  have  wrought  their  high  mission,  their  holy  behest ! 
Stained  with  blood,  scorched  with  flame,  hanging  tattered  and 

torn, 

Yet  dearer,  by  far,  than  when,  bright,  they  were  borne 
By  brave  hearts  to  glory  ! 

As  we  gaze  at  their  tatters,  what  battle-fields  rise, 
Fields  flashing  in  deeds  of  sullimest  emprise  ? 
When  earth  rocked  with  thunder,  the  sky  glared  with  fire. 
And  Havoc's  red  pinion  dashed  onward  in  ire  ! 
Deeds  deathless  in  glory  ! 

Press  the  stars  to  the  lips,  clasp  the  stripes  to  the  heart ! 
Let  us  swear  their  grand  memories  shall  not  depart ! 
They  have  waved  in  this  contest  of  Freedom  and  Right, 
And  our  Eagle  shall  waft  them,  wide  streaming  in  light, 
To  our  summit  of  glory  ! 

There  —  hope  darting  beacons,    starred   shrines  —  shall   they 

glow, 

Lighting  Liberty's  way  to  the  breast  of  the  foe  ;  — 
Till  her  spear  smites  with  splendor  the  gloom,  and  our  sun, 
One  broad  central  orb,  shall  again  brighten  one 
Mighty  nation  of  glory  ! 


PRESENTATION    OF 


The  ceremonies  of  the  evening  being  com- 
pleted, the  Governor  and  Senate  withdrew,  and 
the  Speaker  declared  the  House  adjourned  to  the 
stated  hour  for  business  on  the  following  day. 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


COLORS  OF  THE  tOTH  REGIMENT  N.  V.  S,  V. 

(One  Flag.) 


This  flag  was  presented  by  the  city  of  New 
York,  on  the  departure  of  the  10th  regiment  to 
the  seat  of  war. 

It  was  the  first  American  flag  raised  over  the 
Custom  House  at  Norfolk,  Va.,  after  its  recovery 
by  Union  troops,  and  was  borne  in  the  SEVEN 
DAYS  BEFORE  RICHMOND,  2o  BULL  RUN,  ANTIETAM 
and  FREDERICKSBURGH.  At  the  latter  place  it  was 
shot  from  the  hands  of  the  bearer.  Several  of 
the  guard  were  killed  under  it.  The  10th  regi- 
ment left  a  battalion  of  four  companies  that  has 
since  been  increased  to  six,  in  the  field,  upon  the 
return  of  the  main  body  at  the  expiration  of  its 
two  years  term.  The  flag  is  transmitted  to  the 
State  Archives  by  MAJOR  GEO.  F.  HOOPER. 


PRESENTATION    OF 


colons  or  THE  tm  REGIMENT  H.  v,  s.  v* 

(One  Flag.) 


This  regiment  was  organized  at  Syracuse, 
although  Constantia,  Batavia  and  Homer  each 
furnished  a  company.  At  Syracuse,  upon  leav- 
ing for  the  seat  of  war  (May  2d,  1861),  the  ladies 
presented  this  flag,  which  has  been  carried 
through  every  service  in  which  it  has  been 
engaged.  At  the  expiration  of  two  years,  the 
regiment  returned,  and  the  flag  was  placed  in 
the  custody  of  the  State. 

The  12th  regiment  was  engaged  in  the  battle 
of  BLACKBURN'S  FORD,  and  at  Bull  Run  was  in 
reserve.  After  spending  many  months  building 
and  guarding  forts  in  front  of  Washington,  it 
was  sent  to  the  Peninsula,  where  it  was  engaged 
in  the  SEIGE  OF  YORKTOWN,  and  the  battles  of 
HANOVER  COURT  HOUSE,  GAINES'  MILL,  SAVAGE'S 
STATION,  WHITE  OAK  SWAMP  and  MALVERN  HILL. 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


Returning  to  the  front  of  Washington,  it  partici- 
pated in  the  SECOND  BATTLE  OF  BULL  RUN,  and 
afterwards  in  the  campaign  in  Maryland,  and 
the  battle  of  FREDERICKSBURGH.  It  was  during 
the  period  of  active  field  service,  a  part  of  the 
3d  Brigade,  1st  Division  of  the  5th  Army  Corps. 


PRESENTATION    OF 


COLORS  OF  THE  I3TH  REGIMENT  N*  V.  S.  V. 

(Three  Flags.) 


Three  flags,  two  the  National  colors  and  one 
an  embroidered  banner,  have  been  returned  by 
the  13th  regiment  to  the  custody  of  the  State 
for  preservation. 

The  regimental  banner  was  presented  by  the 
ladies  of  Rochester. 

The  new  National  flag  was  carried  in  the  first 
battle  of  BULL  RUN  only.  The  holes  in  the  union 
were  made  upon  that  occasion. 

The  old  National  flag  was  carried  habitually 
on  the  march  and  in  action. 

The  13th  regiment  was  raised  in  Rochester, 
under  Colonel,  now  General  ISAAC  QUIMBY,  in 
April,  1861,  and  with  the  12th  N.  Y.  Volunteers, 
were  the  first  troops  to  pass  through  Baltimore 
after  the  riot  of  April  19th,  and  the  attack  upon 
the  6th  Massachusetts  regiment.  It  participated 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


in  the  FIRST  BATTLE  OF  BULL  RUN,  SEIGE  OF  YORK- 
TOWN,  battles  of  HANOVER  COURT  HOUSE,  MECHAN- 
ICSVILLE,  GAINES'  MILL,  TURKEY  BEND,  MALVERN 
HILL,  SECOND  BULL  RUN,  ANTIETAM  (in  reserve), 
SHEPARDSTOWN,  and  FREDERICKSBURGH.  The  regi- 
ment, after  an  honorable  service  of  two  years, 
was  mustered  out  on  the  14th  of  May,  1863. 
The  flags  are  transmitted  to  the  Bureau  of  Mili- 
tary Statistics,  by  COL.  E.  G.  MARSHALL. 


PRESENTATION    OF 


GOWKS  OF  THE  I4TH  REGIMENT  N*  V,  S,  V. 

(One  Flag.) 


This  regiment  was  organized  at  Albany,  from 
companies  raised  in  Utica,  Rome,  Boonville, 
Batavia,  Lowville  and  Hudson.  It  joined  the 
army  of  the  Potomac  in  June,  1861,  and  was 
engaged  in  the  SEIGE  OF  YORKTOWN,  and  in  the 
battles  of  NEW  BRIDGE,  HANOVER  COURT  HOUSE, 
MECHANICSVILLE,  GAINES'  MILL,  MALVERN  HILL, 
SECOND  BULL  RUN,  SHEPARDSTOWN,  FREDERICKS- 
BURGH  and  ClIANCELLORSVILLE. 

The  14th  regiment  received  this  banner  from 
the  hand  of  Governor  MORGAN,  on  its  departure 
for  the  field,  and  on  the  expiration  of  its  term 
of  enlistment,  it  was  returned  to  Governor  SEY- 
MOUR soiled  and  tattered,  but  not  dishonored.  In 
reporting  the  history  of  the  regiment,  it  is 
added  with  commendable  pride  that  the  14th  never 
had  its  pickets  driven  in<  and  never  turned  its  back  to 
the  enemy  in  battle. 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


COIOHS  OF  THE  tOTH  REGIMENT  N,  V,  8.  V. 

(Two  Flags.) 


These  flags  were  presented  by  MRS.  JOSEPH 
HOWLANP  of  Fishkill,  N.  Y.,  the  banner  in  June, 
1861,  and  the  National  flag,  at  Camp  Franklin, 
near  Alexandria,  in  March,  1862,  when  COL. 
ROWLAND  assumed  command  of  the  regiment. 
These  flags  have  been  borne  in  eighteen  battles, 
skirmishes  and  reconnoisances,  the  principal  of 
which  were  WEST  POINT,  Va.,  GAINES'  MILL,  and 
the  six  following  days  of  fighting  and  marching ; 
CRAMPTON  GAP,  ANTIETAM,  1st  and  2d  FREDE- 
RICKSBURGH.  At  Games'  Mill  the  Color  Bearers 
were  three  times  shot  down,  and  every  one  of 
the  Color  Guard  was  either  killed  or  wounded 
except  one.  The  staff  of  the  regimental  flag 
was  struck  by  a  ball,  while  in  the  hands  of  the 
Color  Bearer,  and  the  ferule  indented  so  that  it 
could  not  be  moved  on  the  staff.  At  Crampton 


PRESENTATION    OF 


Gap,  Corp.  Charles  H.  Conant  was  instantly 
killed  by  a  Minnie  ball  through  the  head  while 
holding  one  of  the  flags,  and  Corp.  Robert  Wat- 
son of  the  Color  Guard,  was  shot  through  the 
leg.  In  this  action  the  regiment,  in  charging 
upon  the  enemy,  captured  a  rebel  battle-flag 
from  an  Alabama  regiment. 

Upon  the  expiration  of  its  term  of  two  years, 
the  16th  regiment  returned  with  its  colors,  which 
were  presented  to  his  Excellency,  the  Governor, 
to  be  deposited  in  the  Bureau  of  Military  Sta- 
tistics, the  pledge  given  by  the  regiment  to  the 
donor,  to  "  stand  by,  defend  and  preserve  them," 
having  been  faithfully  and  honorably  redeemed. 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


COLORS  OF  THE  17TH  REGIMENT  HI.  V.  S.  V, 

(Three  Flags.) 


One  National  flag  and  two  banners  have  been 
returned  by  this  regiment. 

The  National  flag,  much  worn,  was  presented 
to  the  regiment  by  eight  lady  friends  of  COL. 
LANSING,  and  the  blue  banner  by  the  city  of  New 
York.  This  regiment,  sometimes  known  as  the 
"  Westchester  Chasseurs,"  was  organized  in  New 
York,  and  participated  in  the  SEIGE  OF  YORKTOWN, 
and  battles  of  HANOVER  COURT  HOUSE  (where  it 
captured  the  first  cannon  taken  from  the  enemy 
by  the  army  of  the  Potomac),  GROVETON  (where 
it  lost  13  officers  and  250  men,  killed  and 
wounded),  ANTIETAM,  FREDERICKSBURGH  and  CHAN- 

CELLORSVILLE. 

The  17th  regiment  was  brigaded  with  the  3d 
Brigade,  1st  Division,  5th  Army  Corps,  and  its 
two  years  term  of  service  expired  in  the  spring 


PRESENTATION    OF 


of  1863.  A  veteran  regiment  made  up  in  part 
of  men  who  served  in  this  command,  is  now  in 
the  field,  and  is  serving  in  the  Department  of 
the  Southwest. 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


COIOHS  OF  THE  I8TH  HECtMENT  ft  V*  3,  V. 

(One  Flag.) 


This  flag  was  presented  to  the  18th  regiment, 
COL.  WM.  A.  JACKSON,  by  his  lady  friends  of 
Albany,  June  1,  1861,  shortly  before  departure 
for  the  field.  It  bears  the  inscription  "  Rally 
around  them." 

This  regiment  was  organized  at  Albany,  from 
companies  enlisted  in  Albany,  Schenectady, 
Fishkill,  Walkill,  Middletown  and  Ogdensburgh. 
It  was  engaged  in  the  battles  of  FIRST  BULL  RUN, 
WEST  POINT,  GAINES'  MILL,  CHARLES  CITY  CROSS 
ROADS,  MALVERN  HILL,  CRAMPTON  PASS,  ANTIETAM, 
FIRST  AND  SECOND  FREDERICKSBURGH,  and  CHANCEL- 
LORSVILLE.  Upon  the  expiration  of  the  term  of 
enlistment,  this  regiment  returned  home,  and  the 
colors  were  placed  in  the  custody  of  the  State  by 
COL.  GEO.  R.  MYERS,  the  last  Colonel,  who  led  the 
regiment  in  all  its  services  after  leaving  the 
Peninsula,  in  August,  1862. 
6 


PRESENTATION    OF 


COLORS  OF  THE  24TH  REGIMENT  N.  V.  S,  V. 

(One  Flag.) 


This  regiment  was  organized  at  Oswego,  and 
was  mostly  enlisted  in  that  county.  It  entered 
the  field  in  1861 ;  served  during  the  active 
campaign  of  1862,  and  upon  its  returning  after 
two  years'  service,  placed  this  flag  in  the 
State  archives.  It  is  inscribed  with  its  own 
history :  Upon  one  side  "  FALMOUTH,  RAPPAHAN- 
NOCK  STATION,  WARRENTON  SPRINGS,  GAINESVILLE, 
GROVETON,  2d  BULL  RUN,  SOUTH  MOUNTAIN,  ANTIE- 
TAM,  FREDERICKSBURGH,  RAPPAHANNOCK  CROSSING, 
CHANCELLORSVILLE,"  and  upon  the  other:  "24th 
REGIMENT,  IRON  BRIGADE,  1st  DIVISION,  1st  ARMY 
CORPS." 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


C0l0n$  OF  THE  23TH  &ECIMENT  N*  V.  8.  V. 

(One  Flag.) 


This  regiment  was  organized  at  Elmira,  from 
companies  raised  in  Utica,  Hamilton,  Rochester 
and  Tioga  county.  It  served  in  the  campaign 
of  Virginia,  under  GEN.  POPE;  and  in  Maryland, 
under  McCLELLAN ;  followed  the  enemy  as  he 
retired  into  Virginia,  and  returned  at  the  expira- 
tion of  its  two  years  term  of  service.  This  flag 
was  transmitted  to  the  State  archives,  with  the 
following  letter : 

"  To  GEN.  J.  T.  SPRAGUE,          > 
ADJUTANT  GENERAL,  N.  Y.  ) 

"  SIR:  I  have  the  honor  to  return  to  the  cus- 
todv  of  the  State  of  New  York,  the  colors  car- 

v 

ried  by  this  regiment  since  June,  1861.  They 
have  been  borne  through  every  battle  of  Eastern 
Virginia,  and  under  their  folds  have  fallen  five 
good  and  true  men.  *  *  * 

We  return  them  to  the  State   from  which  we 


PRESENTATION    OF 


received  them,  well  knowing  they  will  be  cher- 
ished as  mementoes  of  the  living  and  the  dead. 
They  bear  the  marks  of  bullets,  and  of  the 
blood  of  those  who  defended  them,  and,  as  such, 
will  always  be  regarded  with  respect  and  vene- 
ration by  those  who  are  left  to  mourn  the  loss  of 
their  comrades  on  the  field  of  battle. 
Very  respectfully, 

Your  obedient  servant, 

R.  H.  RICHARDSON, 
Col.  Commanding  26/A  N.  Y.  Vols. 

This  regiment  was  at  the  battles  of  CEDAR 
MOUNTAIN,  RAPPAHANNOCK  STATION,  THOROUGHFARE 
GAP,  GROVETON,  SOUTH  MOUNTAIN,  ANTIETAM, 
FREDERICKSBURGH  and  CHANCELLORSVILLE. 

At  Groveton,  about  150  were  killed  and 
wounded;  at  Antietam,  30;  and  at  Fredericks- 
burgh,  162. 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


COLORS  OF  THE  27TH  REGIMENT  H.  V.  S,  V, 

(One  Flag.) 


This  regiment  was  organized  at  Elmira,  from 
companies  raised  in  Rochester,  Binghamton, 
Lyons,  Angelica  and  Lima,  and  entered  the 
field  under  COL.  SLOCUM,  since  promoted  to  the 
rank  of  Major  General  in  command  of  a  corps. 
COL.  BARTLETT,  who  succeeded,  was  also  pro- 
moted to  the  command  of  a  division. 

The  27th  regiment  received  this  flag,  May  22d, 
1861,  from  Company  G.,  and  this  company  the 
same  day  received  it  from  Mrs.  PHILIP  CHURCH  of 
Belvidere.  It  was  borne  in  the  battles  of  1st 
BULL  RUN,  MECHANICSVILLE,  WEST  POINT,  GAINES' 
MILL,  GOLDSBOROUGH'S  FARM,  CHICKAHOMINY,  WHITE 
OAK  CREEK,  MALVERN  HILL,  CRAMPTON  PASS,  ANTIE- 
TAM,  and  the  1st  and  2d  battles  of  FREDERICKS- 
BURGH.  The  bearer  at  Games'  Mill  was  severely 
wounded.  The  flag  has  been  many  times  struck 


PRESENTATION    OF 


by  the  enemy's  shot,  and  the  larger  holes  were 
made  by  fragments  of  shell. 

The  star  in  the  case  appended  to  the  lance, 
was  literally  shot  out  of  the  flag,  while  the  regi- 
ment was  storming  the  Heights  of  Fredericks- 
burgh,  in  May,  1863.  It  was  contributed  to  the 
Bureau  of  Military  Statistics  by  A.  L.  VAN  NESS, 
of  Dansville,  N.  Y.,  who  was  the  Color  Bearer  in 
that  assault.  The  flag  itself  was  transmitted  by 
COL.  ADAMS. 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


GUIDON  OF  THE  2$TH  REGIMENT  N.  V.  $.  V. 

(One  Flag.) 


At  the  battle  of  Chancellorsville,  JOHN  OTTO 
SWAN  of  Medina,  aged  15  years  (enlisted  as  a 
drummer,  and  then  acting  as  a  marker),  displayed 
great  activity  and  energy.  A  soldier  of  Com- 
pany E  was  shot  dead,  when  the  boy  took  this 
flag  from  its  staff,  put  it  in  his  pocket,  adjusted 
upon  himself  the  accoutrements  of  the  dead  sol- 
dier, and  fought  gallantly  in  the  ranks,  until 
with  65  men  and  3  officers  he  was  taken  prisoner. 
Concealing  the  flag  under  the  lining  of  his  coat, 
he  kept  it  with  him  when  taken  to  Richmond, 
and  managed  to  bring  it  away  unobserved  when 
exchanged  and  sent  home. 

The  flag  is  deposited  by  the  lad's  father,  as  an 
honorable  memorial  of  the  services  of  a  patriotic 
son. 

The  other  flags  of  the  regiment  were  lost  in 
the  service. 


PRESENTATION    OF 


COLORS  OF  THE  29TH  HEGtMENT  «*  V.  8.  V. 

(Three  Flags.) 


This  regiment  was  composed  exclusively  of 
Germans,  and  was  organized  in  New  York  under 
Col.  (now  GENERAL)  A.  VON  STEINWEHR.  It  was 
engaged  in  the  1st  BATTLE  OF  BULL  RUN,  CROSS 
KEYS,  WARRENTON  SULPHUR  SPRINGS,  2d  BULL  RUN, 
and  CHANCELLORSVILLE,  and  upon  the  expiration  of 
the  two  years'  term  of  the  regiment,  its  flags 
were  placed  for  preservation  in  the  State  ar- 
chives. The  29th  was  a  part  of  the  1st  Brigade, 
2d  Division,  llth  Army  Corps,  and  during  the 
active  period  of  the  campaign  of  1862,  served 
under  GENERAL  FREMONT,  in  the  Mountain  Depart- 
ment, and  in  the  Corps  of  GENERAL  SIGEL,  in  the 
army  of  Virginia.  It  went  to  the  field  with  745 
men,  and  returned  with  339.  During  the  two 
years,  33  men  were  killed  fighting  under  these 
colors. 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


COLORS  OF  THE  32D  REGIMENT  It.  V.  S.  V. 

(Two  Flags.) 


This  regiment  was  originally  intended  to  serve 
under  COL.  BAKER  of  California,  and  for  a  time 
was  called  the  "  1st  California  Regiment."  It 
was  organized  on  Staten  Island,  from  companies 
enlisted  in  Johnstown,  Amsterdam,  Ithaca,  Tar- 
rytown  and  New  York  city,  and  served  as  a  part 
of  the  3d  Brigade,  1st  Division,  6th  Corps. 

The  National  flag  was  presented  to  the  32d 
regiment,  June  28th,  1861,  by  the  lady  of  the 
HON.  WM.  LAIMBIER,  JR.,  of  New  York  city ;  and 
the  banner,  by  the  city  of  New  York,  in  the  fall 
of  1861. 

This  regiment  was  engaged  in  the  FIRST  BAT- 
TLE OF  BULL  RUN,  WFST  POINT,  GAINES'  MILL, 
WHITE  OAK  SWAMP,  CHARLES  CITY  CROSS  ROADS, 
2d  BULL  RUN,  CRAMPTON  PASS,  ANTIETAM,  FREDE- 
RICKSBURGH  and  CHANCELLORSVILLE.  During  its 
7 


p 

50  PRESENTATION    OF 


two  years'  term  of  service,  the  32d  regiment 
lost  34  killed,  and  127  wounded  in  action  Its 
colonel  and  major  were  mortally  wounded  at 
Crampton  Pass,  where  the  regiment  charged  on 
the  enemy,  and  assisted  in  driving  them  up  and 
over  the  mountain  with  heavy  loss. 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


•COLORS  OF  THE  34TH  REGIMENT  «.  V,  3. 

(One  Flag.) 


This  regiment  was  organized  at  Albany,  in 
May,  1861.  Five  of  its  companies  were  enrolled 
in  Herkimer  county,  two  in  Steuben,  one  in 
Clinton,  one  in  Essex,  and  one  in  West  Troy, 
Albany  county.  It  was  mustered  into  the  serv- 
ice of  the  United  States,  June  15th,  and  soon 
after  being  sent  to  the  seat  of  war,  was  assigned 
to  duty  in  Maryland  on  the  upper  Potomac. 

It  participated  in  the  battle  of  BALL'S  BLUFF, 
the  SEIGE  OF  YORKTOWN,  battles  of  WEST  POINT, 
FAIR  OAKS,  SEVEN  PINES,  PEACH  ORCHARD  STATION, 
SAVAGE'S  STATION,  WHITE  OAK  SWAMP,  GLENDALE, 
MALVERN  HILL,  SOUTH  MOUNTAIN,  ANTIETAM,  ASH- 
BY'S  GAP,  and  FREDERICKSBURGH. 

The  34th  was  brigaded  with  the  1st  Brigade, 
2d  Division,  2d  Army  Corps. 


PRESENTATION    OF 


OF  THE  37TH  REGIMENT  81.  V.  $.  V. 

(Three  Flags.) 


This  Regiment  was  raised  in  New  York  city, 
and  was  sometimes  known  as  the  "  Irish  Rifles." 

Upon  the  expiration  of  its  two  years'  term,  it 
placed  in  the  custody  of  the  Bureau  of  Military 
Statistics,  seven  flags,  including  two  guidons  and 
two  designation  flags,  together  with  all  its  papers 
and  records. 

The  National  flag  that  shows  the  greatest 
amount  of  service,  was  received  by  the  regiment, 
when  it  arrived  in  Washington  in  July,  1861. 
In  camp  or  in  bivouack  it  was  always  before  the 
regimental  headquarters,  and  it  was  borne  in  the 
following  battles :  1st  BULL  RUN  (in  reserve), 

WlLLIAMSBURGH,     FAIR     OAKS,    GbENDALE,     MALVERN 

HILL,  2d  BULL  RUN,  CHANTILLY,  FREDERICKSBURGH 
and  CHANCELLORSVILLE.  It  was  also  with  the 
regiment  in  the  SEIGE  OF  YORKTOWN,  and  in  seve 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


ral  skirmishes  on  the  Occoquan,  in  front  of  York- 
town,  Richmond,  &c. 

The  Green  banner  was  presented  by  the  city 
of  New  York,  in  February,  1862,  and  was  with 
the  regiment  in  front  of  Fredericksburgh,  and 
in  the  battle  of  Chancellorsville.  It  is  inscribed 
with  the  names  "  Williamsburgh,"  "  Fair  Oaks," 
"Fredericksburgh,"  "Glendale,"  " Malvern Hill." 

The  new  National  flag,  companion  to  the  green 
banner,  replaces  on  the  original  staff  one  that 
was  lost  at  Chancellorsville.  The  flag  was  re- 
moved by  LLOYD,  the  bearer,  and  wrapped  around 
his  body,  as  it  was  liable  to  be  torn  in  passing 
through  the  tangled  brush  through  which  he  was 
obliged  to  creep.  This  brave  and  intelligent 
soldier  was  killed,  and  his  body  was  buried, 
without  suspecting  that  the  flag  was  wrapped 
around  his  person  under  his  coat.  Repeated 
efforts  were  made  to  find  his  grave,  but  without 
success. 


PRESENTATION    OF 


COLORS  OF  THE  38TH  RECtMENT  N.  V.  S,  V, 

(Two  Flags.) 


This  regiment  was  organized  in  New  York, 
under  Colonel,  now  GENERAL  J.  H.  HOB  ART  WARD, 
and  was  known  at  that  time  as  the  "  Second 
Regiment  Scott  Life  Guard."  These  colors  were 
presented  by  the  citizens  and  the  city  of  New 
York.  The  regiment  before  receiving  them, 
was  engaged  in  the  FIRST  BATTLE  OF  BULL  RUN. 
It  was  subsequently  in  the  SEIGE  OF  YORKTOWN, 
and  the  battles  of  WILLIAMSBURGII,  FAIR  OAKS, 
THE  ORCHARD,  GLENDALE,  CHARLES  CITY  CROSS 
ROADS,  MALVERN  HILL,  SECOND  BULL  RUN,  CHAN- 
TILLY,  FREDERICKSBURGII,  CHANCELLORSVILLE  and 
GETTYSBURGH. 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


C0l0n$  OF  THE  69TH  REGIMENT  JL  V.  S.  V. 

(Three  Flags.) 


The  regimental  banner  of  this  regiment  was 
presented  by  Ex-Mayor  KINGSLAND  of  New  York, 
on  behalf  of  citizens  of  that  place,  and  the  two 
other  flags  by  the  city  of  New  York. 

The  regiment  has  been  engaged  in  the  follow- 
ing battles :  MALVERN  HILL,  CHANTILLY,  SOUTH 
MOUNTAIN,  ANTIETAM,  FIRST  FREDERICKSBURGH, 
MAYRE'S  HEIGHTS,  THOROUGHFARE  GAP,  GETTYS- 
BURGH,  BRISTOW  STATION  and  MINE  RUN. 

The  loss  at  Antietam  was  very  severe.  Out 
of  twenty-one  officers  and  three  hundred  and 
sixty  men  which  went  into  the  fight,  thirteen 
officers  and  two  hundred  and  thirty  men  were 
killed,  wounded  or  taken  prisoners.  Seven  of 
the  eight  Color  Guard  were  either  killed  or 
wounded,  and  the  remaining  one  received  and 


PRESENTATION    OP 


brought  off  the  colors  of  a  Pennsylvania  regi- 
ment. 

The  top  of  the  staff  of  one  of  the  National 
flags  was  shattered  by  a  shell  bursting  over  it  at 
the  battle  of  Fredericksburgh,  Dec.  13,  1862. 

The  flags  were  deposited  by  LIEUT.  COL.  H.  P. 
RUGG,  with  two  guidons  received  from  the  city 
of  New  York. 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


GOIOHS  OF  THE  3t$T  HEGtMENT  It  V,  $.  V. 

(One  Flag.) 


This  regiment  was  organized  in  New  York  in 
the  fall  of  1861,  under  the  name  of  the  "  Clinton 
Life  Guards." 

This  flag  was  presented  by  the  city  of  New 
York,  and  was  used  as  a  parade  flag  until  the 
Peninsular  campaign.  It  was  laid  aside  until  the 
spring  of  1863,  when  it  was  again  used  through 
the  season  as  a  regimental  flag.  It  was  carried 
through  the  battles  of  CHANCELLORSVILLE,  GETTYS- 
BURGH,  AUBURN,  BRISTOW  STATION,  and  MINE  RUN. 

At  Getty sburgh,  the  Color  Bearer  and  two  of 
the  guard  were  severely  wounded.  The  loss 
here  was  one  officer  killed  and  five  wounded,  and 
sixty-eight  enlisted  men  killed  and  wounded. 
This  flag  is  sent  to  the  State  archives  for  pre- 
servation, by  COL.  NELSON  A.  MILES. 
8 


PRESENTATION    OP 


While  on  the  Peninsula,  this  regiment  was 
engaged  in  the  battles  of  YORKTOWN,  FAIR  OAKS, 
PEACH  ORCHARD,  SAVAGE'S  STATION,  WHITE  OAK 
SWAMP,  and  CHARLES  CITY  CROSS  ROADS,  and  sub- 
sequently at  ANTIETAM,  CHARLESTOWN,  SNICKER'S 
GAP  and  FREDERICKSBURGH.  The  flag  under  which 
the  regiment  fought  their  battles,  was  presented 
at  the  last  session  of  the  Legislature. 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


C0l0n3  OF  THE  84TH  HEGtMEST  «*  V.  S,  V. 

(One  Flag.) 


This  regiment  was  enlisted  chiefly  in  Catta- 
raugus,  Allegany  and  Tompkins  counties.  It  was 
engaged  in  the  SEIQE  OF  YORKTOWN  and  in  the 
battles  of  FAIR  OAKS,  GAINES'  MILL,  PEACH 
ORCHARD,  SAVAGE'S  STATION,  WHITE  OAK  SWAMP, 
MALVERN  HILL,  ANTIETAM,  FREDERICKSBURGH,  CHAN- 
CELLORSVILLE  and  GETTYSBURGH.  It  was  also  en- 
gaged in  several  skirmishes,  the  most  important 
of  which  were  at  SOUTH  MOUNTAIN,  CHARLESTOWN, 
VA.,  and  SNICKER'S  GAP. 

At  Gettysburgh,  on  the  2d  of  July,  1863,  this 
flag  was  carried  by  Chauncey  McKoon  of  Com- 
pany B,  who  was  severely  wounded  in  the  thigh. 
It  was  then  taken  by  Edmund  Stone,  Company 
D,  who  was  killed.  It  was  then  raised  by 
Sergeant  Blackmore,  who  carried  it  through 


60 


PRESENTATION    OF 


the  remainder  of  the  battle,  and  brought  it  off 
safe. 

It  is  transmitted  to  the  Bureau  of  Military 
Statistics  by  COL.  D.  G.  BINGHAM,  the  present 
Colonel. 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


COLORS  OF  THE  76TH  HEGtMENT  N*  V,  $,  V. 

(One  Flag.) 


This  regiment  was  organized  at  Auburn,  Nov. 
14,  1861,  and  left  the  State  on  the  30th  of  that 
month,  receiving  this  flag  at  the  hands  of  ladies 
of  Auburn  before  its  departure. 

The  75th  served  several  months  at  Key  West 
and  Pensacola,  and  formed  a  part  of  the  expedi- 
tion of  GENERAL  BANKS.  It  was  engaged  in  the 
three  battles  before  PORT  HUDSON,  May  25th, 
May  27th,  and  June  14th,  1863,  and  has  since 
been  engaged  in  important  services  in  Louisiana. 

The  colors  were  transmitted  to  the  Bureau  of 
Military  Statistics,  by  COL.  ROBERT  B.  MERRITT, 
the  present  commandant. 


PRESENTATION    OF 


COLORS  OF  THE  76TH  REGIMENT  N.  V.  3.  V. 

(One  Flag.) 


This  regiment  was  organized  in  Cortland 
county,  and  left  the  State  in  January,  1862.  In 
the  ensuing  campaign  it  was  brigaded  with  the 
2d  Brigade,  1st  Division,  1st  Army  Corps,  and 
shared  the  fortunes  of  the  army  under  Generals 
POPE  and  MC€LELLAN,  in  the  campaign  of  Vir- 
ginia and  Maryland,  participating  in  the  battles 
of  RAPPAHANNOCK  STATION,  WARRENTON  SULPHUR 
SPRINGS,  GAINESVILLE,  SECOND  BULL  RUN,  SOUTH 
MOUNTAIN,  ANTIETAM  and  UPPERVILLE.  It  served 
under  General  BURNSIDE  at  the  battle  of  FREDE- 
RICKSBURGH;  under  General  HOOKER  during  four 
days  marching  and  fighting  at  CHANCELLORSVILLE  ; 
and  under  General  MEADE  at  GETTYSBURGH  and 
MINE  RUN. 

This  flag  was  presented  to  the  regiment  on  the 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


steps  of  the  Capitol  in  Albany,  upon  its  depart- 
ure for  the  field,  by  Mrs.  CAMPBELL  of  York  Mills, 
Oneida  county,  with  public  ceremonies,  and  was 
carried  until  December,  1863.  It  received  fif- 
teen musket  balls  and  one  twelve  pound  shot 
through  it  in  action.  The  Color  Bearer,  Ser- 
geant Champ,  was  killed  at  South  Mountain. 
At  Getty sburgh  the  Color  Bearer  was  wounded 
just  as  the  regiment  was  falling  back,  and  came 
near  being  captured,  but  was  rescued  by  private 
John  Stephens  of  Company  H,  who  left  the 
ranks  under  the  fire  of  the  enemy,  and  reco- 
vered the  flag  in  safety.  He  was  promoted  to  a 
Sergeant  for  his  gallantry  on  that  occasion 

The  flag  is  transmitted  to  the  Bureau  of  Mili- 
tary Statistics  by  Captain  A.  L.  SWAN,  of  Com- 
pany H,  of  the  76th  regiment. 


PRESENTATION    OF 


GOWKS  OF  THE  77TH  HEGIMENT  N.  V.  8.  V, 

on,    Flag.) 


This  regiment  was  organized  in  Saratoga 
county,  and  while  forming,  was  known  as  the 
"  Bemis  Heights  Regiment."  This  flag  was  pre- 
sented November  29,  1861,  by  citizens  of  Sara- 
toga county,  resident  in  New  York  city.  It  has 
been  carried  in  the  battle  of  LEE'S  MILLS,  the 
SEIGE  OF  YORKTOWN,  battles  of  MECHANICSVILLE, 
GOLDEN'S  FARM,  GARNET'S  HILL,  WHITE  OAK  SWAMP, 
CRAMPTON  PASS,  ANTIETAM,  FREDERICKSBURGH, 
MAYRES'  HEIGHTS  and  GETTYSBURG!!.  The  Bearers 
were  Sergeant  Isaac  Bemis,  and  afterwards  Cor- 
poral Michael  McWilliams.  In  the  charge  up 
Mayres'  Heights,  one  of  the  Color  Guard  was 
killed,  and  the  flag  was  torn  into  shreds  by  a 
shell. 

The  Guide  colors  (one  of  which  is  attached), 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


were  presented  at  the  same  time  and  place,  have 
been  used  during  the  same  period.  That  on  the 
right  of  the  line  was  crimson,  and  that  on  the 
left,  blue. 


PRESENTATION    OF 


COIOHS  OF  THE  20TH  »*  V.  STATE  MlUTtA* 

"80TH  N.  Y.  S.  VOLUNTEERS." 
(One  Flag.) 


This  regiment,  sometimes  known  as  the 
"  Ulster  Guard,"  went  to  the  field  as  a  militia 
regiment,  under  Col.  GEO.  W.  PRATT,  for  a  term 
of  three  months,  a  few  days  after  the  beginning 
of  the  war. 

Upon  its  return  it  was  re-organized  for  three 
years,  and  it  has  recently  re-enlisted  for  the  war. 

This  regiment  was  in  the  battles  of  RAPPAHAN- 
NOCK  STATION,  WARRENTON  SPRINGS,  GROVETON,  2d 
BULL  RUN  (where  Colonel  PRATT  was  mortally 
wounded),  CHANTILLY,  SOUTH  MOUNTAIN,  ANTIETAM, 
FREDERICKSBURGH,  CHANCELLORSVILLE  and  GETTYS- 
BURGH. 

The  regiment  lost  35  killed  and  232  wounded 
in  the  campaign  of  1862,  while  fighting  under 
these  colors. 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


OF  THE  9IST  REGIMENT  1»*  V.  8.  V. 

(One  Flag.) 


Upon  the  departure  of  the  91st  from  Albany 
for  Key  West,  in  December,  1861,  it  received  a 
National  flag,  of  which  the  one  here  exhibited  is 
a  part.  The  regiment  served  for  some  time  at 
Pensacola,  and  subsequently  under  Gen.  BANKS 
in  Louisiana. 

It  was  engaged  at  IRISH  BEND,  YERMILLION, 
BAYOU,  and  the  three  battles  before  PORT  HUDSON, 
of  May  25th  and  27th,  and  June  14th,  1863.  In 
one  of  these  the  flag  was  torn  in  two,  and  this 
portion  was  brought  into  a  hospital  by  one  of 
the  Color  Guard,  who  was  wounded.  The  part 
that  remained  on  the  lance  is  still  with  the  regi- 
ment, and  in  due  time  the  two  will  be  re-united. 

This  flag  is  presented  through  Col.  HARCOURT 
of  Albany,  by  whom  it  was  originally  presented 
to  the  regiment. 


PRESENTATION    OF 


COLORS  OF  THE  98TH  REGIMENT  N*  V.  8,  V. 

(One  Flag.) 


This  regiment  was  organized  at  Plattsburgh 
under  Col.  F AIRMAN.  It  served  in  the  SEIGE  OP 
YORKTOWN,  and  the  battles  of  WILLIAMSBURGH, 
SEVEN  PINES,  FAIR  OAKS,  CHICKAHOMINY  SWAMP, 
WHITE  OAK  SWAMP,  RAIL  ROAD  BRIDGE,  BOTTOM 
BRIDGE,  LONG'S  BRIDGE,  JONES'  FORD,  CHARLES  CITY 
CROSS  ROADS,  HARRISON'S  POINT,  BLACK  WATER  AND 
KINSTON. 

Col.  CHARLES  0.  GRAY  succeeded  to  the  com- 
mand of  the  regiment,  and  was  killed  in  action, 
Dec.  14,  1862,  in  the  act  of  planting  his  colors 
on  the  enemy's  position,  on  the  bridge  over  the 
Neuse  River,  at  Kinston,  N.  C. 

This  regiment  has  re-enlisted  with  General 
LEDLIE'S  Veteran  Brigade,  and  is  now  serving  in 
the  Department  of  North  Carolina. 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


C0l0n$  OF  THE  97TH  REGIMENT  It  V*  S,  V. 

(One  Flag.) 


This  regiment  was  organized  at  Boonville,  and 
was  made  up  by  enlistments  in  Oneida,  Lewis 
and  Herkimer  counties.  These  colors  were  pre- 
sented to  the  regiment  by  the  ladies  of  Boon- 
ville, and  have  been  carried  in  the  battles  of 
CEDAR  MOUNTAIN,  RAPPAHANNOCK  STATION,  THO- 
ROUGHFARE GAP,  2d  BULL  RUN,  CHANTILLY,  SOUTH 
MOUNTAIN,  ANTIETAM,  FREDERICKSBURGH,  CHANCEL- 
LORSVILLE  and  GETTYSBURGH. 

A  portion  of  this  regiment  has  re-enlisted  for 
the  war,  and  the  record  of  its  services  are  of  the 
most  honorable  character.  Its  numbers,  at  one 
time  greatly  reduced  by  casualties,  have  been 
increased  by  conscripts  and  substitutes,  to  a  full 
and  efficient  regiment. 


PRESENTATION    OF 


COLOBS  OF  THE  104TH  REGIMENT  8L  V.  S.  V. 

on,    Flag.) 


This  banner  was  presented  to  the  104th  regi- 
ment (Wadsworth  Guard),  by  Gen.  JAMES  S. 
WADSWORTH,  in  April,  1862,  and  it  was  carried 
through  the  campaign  of  1862,  under  General 
POPE  and  MCCLELLAND  and  in  1863  on  the  march 
into  Maryland  and  Pennsylvania. 

This  regiment  was  under  an  active  cannonade 
on  the  evening  following  the  battle  of  CEDAR 
MOUNTAIN,  in  the  three  days'  battle  on  the  RAP- 
PAHANNOCK,  and  at  the  battles  of  THOROUGHFARE 
GAP,  SECOND  BULL  RUN,  SOUTH  MOUNTAIN,  ANTIE- 
TAM,  FREDERICKSBURGH,  CHANCELLORSVILLE  and  GET- 
TYSBURGH,  besides  in  numerous  skirmishes. 

One  of  the  Bearers  was  severely  wounded  at 
South  Mountain,  and  another  at  Antietam.  At 
Gettysburgh,  seven  of  the  Sergeants  and  Color 
Guard  were  killed  or  wounded  in  sustaining 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


them,  and  the  Corporal  who  took  the  National 
flag  being  in  danger  of  capture,  tore  the  flag  from 
the  staff  and  stamped  it  into  the  ground  to  con- 
ceal it  from  the  enemy's  notice.  This  flag  was 
barely  saved  by  great  vigilance. 

The  104th  has  sustained  an  honorable  repu- 
tation, and  is  still  in  the  service.  The  flag  is 
sent  by  Lieut.  Col.  STRONG,  for  preservation  in 
the  State  archives. 

The  104th  regiment  was  organized  at  Geneseo, 
and  made  up  of  volunteers  enlisted  in  Livingston 
county,  with  the  exception  of  three  companies 
from  Troy,  that  were  consolidated  before  leaving 
the  State. 


72  PRESENTATION    OF 


colons  or  THE  ISOTH  REGIMENT  «*  v.  s* 

(One  Flag.) 


This  regiment  was  organized  by  the  Senatorial 
Committee  of  the  30th  District,  at  Portage,  and 
was  recruited  in  Livingston,  Wyoming  and  Alle- 
gany  counties.  In  the  autumn  of  1862,  it  was 
sent  to  Fortress  Monroe,  and  was  engaged  in  the 
operations  near  Suffolk,  as  a  part  of  the  Seventh 
Army  Corps.  On  the  llth  day  of  August,  1863, 
this  regiment  was  changed  to  the  19th  N.  Y. 
Cavalry,  and  since  September,  10th,  1863,  it  has 
been  known  as  the  First  Regiment  of  Dragoons, 
New  York  State  Volunteers.  These  colors  were 
borne  by  the  regiment  only  during  its  services 
as  an  Infantry  organization. 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


COIOHS  OF  THE  I40TH  HECtMENT  N.  V.  8.  V. 

(One  Flag.) 


This  regiment  was  organized  at  Rome,  under 
the  direction  of  the  Senatorial  Committee  of  the 
19th  District,  and  left  the  State  September  27, 
1862.  It  was  assigned  to  the  3d  Brigade,  2d 
Division,  5th  Army  Corps,  and  fought  at  FREDE- 

RICKSBURGH,    CHANCELLORSVILLE     and     GETTYSBURGH, 

as  a  part  of  the  3d  Brigade,   2d  Division,  5th 
Corps. 


10 


PRESENTATION    OF 


COIOBS  OF  THE  I77TH  REGIMENT  «L  V.  S.  V. 

(Two  Flag*.) 


The  10th  regiment  National  Guards  was  organ- 
ized for  a  nine  months'  term  of  service,  under 
the  name  of  the  "  177th  Volunteers,"  at  Albany, 
in  November,  1862,  and  sent  with  Gen.  BANKS' 
Expedition  to  the  Department  of  the  Gulf. 

It  was  attached  to  the  3d  Brigade,  2d  Division, 
19th  Corps,  and  served  in  two  campaigns  upon 
the  Amite  River,  and  through  the  entire  SEIGE  OF 
PORT  HUDSON,  taking  part  in  the  battles  of  May 
27  and  June  14,  1863. 

The  regiment  returned  in  August,  1863,  by 
way  of  the  Mississippi  River,  the  route  origi- 
nally promised  by  General  BANKS  to  the  troops 
of  his  Expedition. 

The  National  flag  here  presented,  was  received 
by  the  regiment  while  stationed  at  Bonne  Car- 
rie, La.,  from  Mrs.  MERRIHEW,  the  wife  of  an 
officer  of  the  regiment. 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


C   O  L  O  TEt  8 

OF   THE 

3D  N.  V.  STATE  ARTILLERY  REGIMENT, 

FORMERLY    THE    I9TH    REGIMENT    OF    INFANTRY. 
(One  Flag.) 


This  regiment  entered  the  field  in  the  summer 
of  1861,  and  on  the  llth  of  December  of  that 
year,  was  changed  to  Artillery.  Four  companies 
were  added,  and  in  April  it  was  sent  to  Newbern, 
N.  C.  The  banner  here  exhibited  is  inscribed 
by  authority  with  the  names  of  battles  in  which 
it  has  been  engaged :  LOVETTSVILLE,  FORT  MACON, 
WASHINGTON,  N.  C.,  SOUTH  WEST  CREEK,  KINSTON, 
WHITEHALL,  GOLDSBOROUGH,  NEWBERN,  and  SEIGE  OF 
WASHINGTON.  The  greater  part  of  this  regiment 
have  re-enlisted  with  General  LEDLIE'S  Veteran 
Brigade. 


PRESENTATION    OF 


COLORS 

OF    THE 

7TH  N,  V.  STATE  INDEPENDENT  BATTERY. 

(One  Flag.) 


This  battery  was  raised  in  Newburgh  and 
Cornwall,  under  Captain  PETER  C.  REGAN,  and 
originally  formed  a  part  of  the  "  Tenth  Legion," 
or  56th  regiment  N.  Y.  Volunteers. 

Upon  entering  the  field  it  was  detached  and 
made  an  Independent  Battery. 

It  served  on  the  Peninsula,  and  subsequently 
with  the  7th  Army  Corps,  in  Southeastern  Vir- 
ginia. The  guidon  was  struck  by  a  shell  at  the 
battle  of  Fair  Oaks. 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


COLORS 

OF    THE 

UTH  8.  V.  STATE  INDEPENDENT  BATTERY. 

(Throe  Flags.) 


The   flag,    banner   and  guidon   exhibited,  be- 
longed to  the  Eleventh  N.  Y.  Independent  Bat- 
tery, sometimes  called  the  "  Havelock  Battery," 
which  was  raised  in  Albany,  under  the  auspices 
-of  the  Young  Men's  Christian  Association. 

After  serving  several  months  as  heavy  artil- 
lery, it  was  sent  to  the  field,  and  the  guidon  is 
inscribed  by  authority  with  the  names  of  the 
following  battles,  in  which  it  has  participated : 
MANASSAS,  CHANTILLY,  MINE  RUN,  GETTYSBURGH, 
BRISTOW  STATION,  CHANCELLORSVILLE,  RAPPAHAN- 
NOCK  and  FREDERICKSBURGH. 


PRESENTATION    OF 


HISTORY  OF  THE  NATIONAL  FLAG. 


BY    ALFRED     B.     STREET. 


The  most  interesting  incident  connected  with 
the  battle  of  Saratoga  was  the  unfurling,  for  the 
first  time,  the  Stars  and  Stripes  at  the  surrender 
of  Burgoyne. 

Bunker  Hill  was  fought  under  a  red  flag,  bear- 
ing the  motto,  "  Come  if  you  dare ! "  but  on  the 
14th  of  June,  1777,  the  Continental  Congress 
resolved  "  That  the  flag  of  the  thirteen  United 
States  be  thirteen  stripes,  alternate  red  and 
white,  and  that  the  Union  be  thirteen  stars, 
white  on  a  blue  field,  representing  a  new  constel- 
lation." 

This  was  made  public  on  the  3d  of  September 
following.  Previous  to  this  our  National  banner 
was  the  Union  flag,  combining  the  crosses  of  St. 
George  and  St.  Andrew  (taken  from  the  English 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


banner)  with  thirteen  stripes,  alternate  red  and 
white.  The  banner  of  St.  Patrick  (Ireland's 
emblem)  was  not  combined  with  the  crosses  of 
St.  George  and  St.  Andrew  in  the  Standard  of 
Great  Britain  until  1801,  the  year  of  the  union 
with  Ireland. 

The  stars  of  the  new  flag  represented  the  new 
constellation  of  States,  the  idea  taken  from  the 
constellation  Lyra,  which  signifies  harmony. 
The  blue  of  the  field  was  taken  from  the  Cove- 
nanters' banner  in  Scotland,  likewise  significant 
of  the  league  and  covenant  of  the  United  Colo- 
nies against  oppression,  and  incidentally  involv- 
ing vigilance,  perseverance  and  justice.  The 
stars  were  disposed  in  a  circle,  symbolizing  the 
perpetuity  of  the  Union,  the  circle  being  the 
sign  of  eternity.  The  thirteen  stripes  showed, 
with  the  stars,  the  number  of  the  United  Colo- 
nies, and  denoted  the  subordination  of  the  States 
to,  and  their  dependence  upon  the  Union,  as  well 
as  equality  among  themselves.  The  whole  was 
a  blending  of  the  various  flags  previous  to  the 
Union  flag,  viz :  the  red  flags  of  the  army  and 
white  ones  of  the  floating  batteries  —  the  germ 


80  PRESENTATION    OF 


of  our  navy.  The  red  color,  also,  which  in 
Roman  days  was  the  signal  of  defiance,  denoted 
daring,  and  the  white  purity. 

By  the  United  States  law  of  January  13,  1794, 
it  was  enacted  "  that,  from  and  after  the  first  of 
May,  1795,  the  flag  of  the  United  States  shall  be 
fifteen  stripes,  alternate  red  and  white,  and 
"  that  the  Union  he  fifteen  stars,  white  in  a  blue 
field."  This  was  our  National  flag  during  the 
war  of  1812. 

On  the  4th  of  April,  1818,  Congress  altered 
the  flag,  by  directing  a  return  to  the  thirteen 
stripes,  as  follows : 

"  Be  it  enacted,  etc.,  That  from  and  after  the 
4th  day  of  July  next,  the  flag  of  the  United 
States  be  thirteen  horizontal  stripes,  alternate 
red  and  white ;  that  the  Union  be  twenty  stars, 
white,  in  a  blue  field. 

"  And  be  it  further  enacted,  That,  on  the 
admission  of  a  new  State  into  the  Union,  one 
star  be  added  to  the  union  of  the  flag;  and  that 
such  addition  shall  take  effect  on  the  4th  day  of 
July  next  succeeding  such  admission." 

The   return   to   the   thirteen   stripes  was   by 


REGIMENTAL    COLORS. 


reason  of  the  anticipation  that  the  addition  of  a 
stripe  on  the  admission  of  each  State  would 
make  the  flag  too  unwieldy.  The  old  number 
of  stripes  also  perpetuated  the  original  number 
of  States  of  the  Union,  while  the  addition  of  the 
stars  showed  the  Union  in  its  existing  state. 

The  flag  planted  by  our  troops  in  the  city  of 
Mexico,  at  the  conclusion  of  the  Mexican  war, 
bore  thirty  stars. 

The  size  of  the  flag  for  the  army  is  six  feet 
six  inches  in  length,  by  six  feet  in  width,  with 
seven  red  and  six  white  stripes.  The  first  seven 
stripes  (four  red  and  three  white)  bound  the 
square  of  the  blue  field  for  the  stars,  the  stripes 
extending  from  the  extremity  of  the  field  to  the 
end  of  the  flag.  The  eighth  stripe  is  white,  ex- 
tending partly  at  the  base  of  the  field.  The 
number  of  stars  is  thirty-five. 

What  eloquence  do  the  Stars  and  Stripes 
breathe,  when  their  full  significance  is  known! 
A  new  constellation  ;  union ;  perpetuity ;  a  cove- 
nant against  oppression;  equality;  subordina- 
tion ;  courage ;  purity. 

11 


82 


PRESENTATION    OF    COLORS. 


Success  to  the  Flag  of  our  Nation  ! 

Its  folds  all  around  us  be  spread  ! 
Emblazoned  with  deeds  of  the  valiant, 

And  sacred  with  names  of  the  dead  ! 
Its  stars  are  the  symbol  of  Union, 

In  Union  they  ever  shall  wave  ! 
Its  white  is  the  emblem  of  honor  ! 

Its  red  is  the  blood  of  the  brave. 

Success  to  the  Flag  of  our  Nation ! 

Let  it  stream  o'er  the  land  and  the  sea! 
The  shades  of  our  heroes  are  round  it, 

Beneath  it,  the  ranks  of  the  Free. 
Let  us  swear  we  will  ever  defend  it 

In  the  trials  to  come,  as  of  yore, 
Lift  it  high,  a  broad  beacon  of  Freedom 

To  the  world,  until  Time  is  no  more ! 


UNIVERSITY  OF  CALIFORNIA  LIBRARY 

Los  Angeles 
This  book  is  DUE  on  the  last  date  stamped  below. 


LO-URL 


APR  0  3 1990 

^v\ 
ICWNOl 


Form  L9-50wi-4,'61(B8994s4)444 


CR 


New  York   (State) 
Adjutant-Gene-  .~ 


Proceedings  attending 
rthe  presentation  of 
ental  (feolors  to 


CR 
111; 


